The Goyt Valley
Lying 7 miles east of Macclesfield and just west of Buxton, the picturesque Goyt valley attracts a diverse range of bird species. This is partly due to its range of habitats which include moorland, woodland and upland farmland. The best time to visit is spring and summer when many birds return from Africa and the coast.
In the woodland, mainly to the west of the reservoirs, notable breeding species include Redstart, Pied Flycatcher, Spotted Flycatcher, Wood Warbler and Tree Pipit. Cuckoos and Woodcock also breed here however they are a bit more elusive. The best chances of seeing Woodcock would be dawn or early evening when roding males fly around their territories in spring and summer. Errwood reservoir also holds several pairs of Common Sandpipers and the occasional Little Ringed Plover which can be viewed quite close.
Along the river following the road up towards the cat and fiddle Dippers and Grey Wagtails occur, favouring the fast flowing water. On the moorland Red Grouse, Curlew and Golden Plover should be seen without much difficulty.Raptors in the area include Short Eared Owl, Merlin, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Tawny Owl and possible Pegerine Falcon. Also Hen Harrier and Red Kite sightings have been recorded on passage. Derbyshire bridge and Danebower (a disused quarry) can be reliable sites for Ring Ouzel, Lapwing, Raven and Wheatear. However due to the shyness of Ring Ouzels they are hard to see during the day due to the popularity of Danebower with walkers. |
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